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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear framework of professional conduct and ethical expectations for all staff members within {{org_field_name}}. It ensures that employees adhere to high standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability while delivering compassionate, safe, and person-centred care. This policy supports our commitment to Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards, Health and Social Care Act 2008, and Equality Act 2010, fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and responsibility.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including care workers, administrative staff, and management.
• Volunteers, agency workers, and third-party contractors working on behalf of the organisation.
• Service users and their families, ensuring they receive care in a respectful and ethical manner.

It covers:

• Professional standards of conduct.
• Ethical principles and responsibilities.
• Interactions with service users and colleagues.
• Safeguarding, confidentiality, and data protection.
• Compliance, accountability, and disciplinary actions.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with the following legislation and regulations:

• Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards – Ensuring high-quality, ethical care.
• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Governing care service delivery.
• Equality Act 2010 – Preventing discrimination and promoting inclusivity.
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018 – Safeguarding personal data.
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 – Protecting at-risk individuals.

4. Professional Standards of Conduct

All staff must:

• Act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism at all times.
• Treat service users, colleagues, and stakeholders with respect, dignity, and fairness.
• Provide safe, high-quality, and compassionate care.
• Maintain appropriate personal and professional boundaries.
• Report any conflicts of interest that could affect professional judgment.
• Avoid discriminatory, abusive, or unethical behaviour.

5. Ethical Principles and Responsibilities

• Dignity and Respect: Treat all individuals with kindness, respect cultural differences, and uphold service user rights.
• Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality of service user information and adhere to GDPR guidelines.
• Duty of Care: Prioritise service user well-being, ensuring their safety and independence.
• Non-Maleficence: Avoid causing harm through neglect, abuse, or unethical practices.
• Accountability: Accept responsibility for actions, decisions, and their consequences.

6. Interactions with Service Users and Colleagues

• Person-Centred Care: Tailor care plans to the unique needs, preferences, and rights of each service user.
• Professional Boundaries:
  • Do not engage in financial transactions or personal favours with service users.
  • Avoid forming personal, romantic, or inappropriate relationships with service users or their families.
  • Maintain professional distance in all interactions.
• Team Collaboration:
  • Foster a supportive and inclusive work environment.
  • Communicate openly and professionally.
  • Address conflicts constructively and report concerns.

7. Safeguarding, Confidentiality, and Data Protection

• Safeguarding Responsibilities:
  • Identify and report any signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
  • Follow the organisation’s Safeguarding Policy and escalation procedures.
  • Attend mandatory safeguarding training.
• Data Protection:
  • Handle service user records securely.
  • Ensure compliance with GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
  • Avoid unauthorised sharing of sensitive information.

8. Compliance, Accountability, and Disciplinary Actions

All staff must adhere to this policy and understand that breaches may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal. Actions that may lead to disciplinary measures include:

• Gross Misconduct: Theft, abuse, harassment, or serious breaches of confidentiality.
• Negligence in Care: Failing to provide appropriate support, leading to harm or distress.
• Failure to Report Concerns: Ignoring safeguarding risks or not disclosing unethical behaviour.
• Inappropriate Use of Social Media: Posting offensive, confidential, or inappropriate content about work or service users.

9. Training and Continuous Professional Development

To ensure adherence to ethical and professional standards:

• All staff receive mandatory induction training on this policy.
• Annual refresher courses on conduct, ethics, and safeguarding are provided.
• Employees are encouraged to undertake professional development and stay updated on best practices.

10. Monitoring, Review, and Policy Updates

To maintain high standards of conduct, {{org_field_name}}:

• Conducts regular staff audits and compliance checks.
• Encourages open reporting of concerns through confidential whistleblowing channels.
• Reviews this policy annually or sooner if regulatory updates occur.

Seeks feedback from staff, service users, and stakeholders to improve ethical practices.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.